EastEnders newcomer Kitty Castledine explains Penny Branning return
She's back as part of a dynamic duo.
EastEnders newcomer Kitty Castledine has opened up about Penny Branning’s return.
It was confirmed last month that Castledine will be taking over the role of Jack Branning’s long-lost daughter, who will return to Walford for the first time in 15 years, alongside her cousin Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa).
“Penny is great. She’s so cool, and she’s got this dry humour that I love,” Castledine said of her character, who previously lived in France with her mum Selina Branning.
“She’s very quirky, and it’s funny because I think she’s got a French persona which she adopted to keep up with the people she was around there. But coming back to Walford is a reality check for her.”
Explaining Penny’s dynamic with cousin Lauren, the actor continued: “Family is really important to everyone in Albert Square, and it’s nice to have this family connection between Lauren and Penny because it’s something they’ve both been missing.
“Penny is so aware of Lauren missing Abi, and Penny would never want to replace Abi, but I think it’s a nice little outlet for Lauren to grieve because in Penny, she has someone who is there to be close to.”
Castledine also shared what it was like getting to work with Jossa, saying she’s “great” and “the best”.
“I am so grateful to have her as part of this dynamic duo, Penny and Lauren. I felt really at ease with her – even on the first day we were working together, I knew we’d get along,” she continued.
“I do feel like she is my cousin. She has been a really nice person to have to show me the ropes, but also lark about with at the same time.”
